Knee replacement surgery can be life-changing for individuals suffering from severe arthritis or joint damage. The goal of the procedure is to relieve chronic pain, restore function, and improve overall mobility. However, many patients are surprised to experience discomfort even after surgery.

If you’re wondering whether your post-surgical pain is part of the normal healing process or something that requires medical attention, you’re not alone. Understanding what’s typical - and what may signal a complication - can help you recover safely and confidently.

At Maywell Health, we regularly evaluate patients experiencing ongoing discomfort after knee replacement surgery. Education is key to ensuring optimal recovery and preventing long-term complications.

Why Pain Occurs After Knee Replacement

Knee replacement (also called knee arthroplasty) involves removing damaged cartilage and bone and replacing them with artificial components. Because this is a major surgical procedure, the body requires time to heal.

Pain after surgery may result from:

• Surgical trauma to tissues

• Swelling and inflammation

• Healing of muscles and ligaments

• Nerve sensitivity

• Scar tissue formation

• Rehabilitation exercises

Experiencing discomfort during the early stages of recovery is expected. The important distinction lies in identifying whether the pain is progressing normally or becoming problematic.

What’s Normal After Knee Replacement

1. Swelling and Stiffness

Mild to moderate swelling around the knee is common for several weeks after surgery. Stiffness, particularly in the morning or after prolonged sitting, is also typical.

Swelling may increase after physical therapy sessions but should gradually improve over time.

2. Pain During Movement

It is normal to feel discomfort when:

• Bending the knee

• Climbing stairs

• Performing rehabilitation exercises

• Transitioning from sitting to standing

Rehabilitation requires gradual stress on healing tissues, which may temporarily increase soreness.

3. Warmth Around the Joint

The surgical area may feel warm for several months due to increased blood flow during healing.

4. Numbness Near the Incision

Temporary numbness or tingling near the surgical scar is common and often improves over time.

5. Gradual Improvement Over Months

Full recovery from knee replacement can take 6–12 months. Pain should steadily decrease, even if mild flare-ups occur along the way.

What’s Not Normal After Knee Replacement

While some discomfort is expected, certain symptoms may indicate complications and require prompt medical attention.

1. Severe or Worsening Pain

Pain that intensifies rather than improves over time may signal:

• Infection

• Implant loosening

• Alignment issues

• Nerve irritation

Persistent pain that interferes significantly with daily activities should not be ignored.

2. Sudden Swelling and Redness

If the knee soreness treatment becomes increasingly swollen, red, warm, and painful - especially with fever - infection may be present.

This is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate evaluation.

3. Instability or Clicking Sensation

A feeling that the knee is “giving out” or unstable may indicate:

• Ligament imbalance

• Improper implant positioning

• Mechanical complications

4. Limited Range of Motion That Does Not Improve

If stiffness remains severe despite physical therapy, scar tissue buildup (arthrofibrosis) may restrict movement.

5. Persistent Pain Beyond One Year

While mild discomfort can occasionally persist, significant pain lasting beyond one year is not typical and warrants evaluation.

At Maywell Health, we frequently assess patients experiencing prolonged post-surgical discomfort to determine the underlying cause and recommend targeted solutions.

Common Causes of Ongoing Pain After Knee Replacement

Persistent pain may result from:

• Improper implant alignment

• Infection

• Scar tissue formation

• Nerve damage

• Referred pain from the hip or lower back

• Overuse during recovery

Accurate diagnosis is essential. Imaging studies, physical examination, and functional assessments help identify the source of pain.

Managing Post-Surgical Knee Pain

If pain falls within the normal recovery range, management strategies may include:

• Continued physical therapy

• Ice and elevation

• Anti-inflammatory medications (under supervision)

• Activity modification

• Gradual strengthening exercises

However, if symptoms suggest abnormal healing, more advanced interventions may be necessary.

At Maywell Health, our specialists provide comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans for individuals dealing with ongoing knee pain - whether after surgery or due to other causes.

When Should You See a Specialist?

You should seek professional evaluation if you experience:

• Pain that worsens instead of improves

• Signs of infection (fever, redness, warmth, drainage)

• Instability or mechanical symptoms

• Severe stiffness limiting mobility

• Pain persisting beyond expected recovery timelines

Early intervention can prevent minor issues from developing into more serious complications.

The Importance of Follow-Up Care

Regular follow-up appointments after knee replacement surgery are crucial. Monitoring recovery progress ensures:

• Proper implant positioning

• Healthy healing

• Appropriate rehabilitation adjustments

• Early detection of complications

Patients who actively participate in physical therapy and follow medical advice tend to experience better long-term outcomes.

A Balanced Perspective on Recovery

Knee replacement surgery is designed to reduce chronic joint pain, but recovery is a gradual process. Temporary swelling, stiffness, and soreness are expected. However, severe or persistent pain should never be dismissed.

Understanding the difference between normal healing and warning signs allows you to act promptly and protect your long-term joint health.

At Maywell Health, we are committed to helping patients navigate every stage of their recovery journey. Whether you are experiencing typical post-surgical discomfort or ongoing pain that raises concern, professional evaluation provides clarity and peace of mind.

If you are unsure whether your symptoms are normal, seeking expert guidance can help ensure your recovery stays on track - and that your new knee delivers the improved mobility and comfort you were hoping for.